Seizing the Evidence with Computer Forensic

The Legal Aspects of Computer Forensic Evidence

Computer forensic experts today have to conform with many rules and regulations if the evidence they uncover is to be acceptable to the courts. The initial step to obtain computer forensic evidence is securing a search warrant to seize the suspect system. This warrant must include wording allowing the investigators to seize not only the computer, but also any peripherals thought to be connected with the crime. A suspected counterfeiter, for instance, may have used his computer, a scanner, and a printer to produce his counterfeit documents, in which case all three items would need to be seized to provide evidence.

 If it is thought that evidence is contained in emails, this also should specifically mentioned in the search warrant. Email is a sensitive area as it can be considered personal, so solid justification is needed before a suspects email is allowed to be searched.

A warrant also needs to be clear about the searching of network and file servers, whether backup media is included, and if hardware, software, and peripherals can be removed to another location to conduct the search.

In all circumstances, data not connected to the crime must not be touched. Doctors, lawyers, and clergy store documents on their PCs and much of this information is confidential. While the computer forensic expert needs to uncover evidence, care must be exercised to protect the personal information of any innocent third parties.

Seizing Equipment for Computer Forensics

Investigators can only seize equipment connected with the case; knowing the role of the computer will indicate what should be taken. For instance, if it is thought that the computer was used to store evidence then all storage media should also be seized for the computer forensic inspection.

If the computer was running programs to collect and analyze information, any relevant books found at the scene should be seized to help computer forensic experts understand the programs.

If the suspect is present he must be prevented from touching the computer. A computer that is running at the time of seizure should not be allowed to shut down, pulling the plug out of the wall will prevent any programs from wiping incriminating information during the shutdown sequence. The computer forensic expert can test the shutdown sequence later, to see if it includes any destructive programs.

Dismantling Equipment for Computer Forensics

When a computer and its peripherals are removed from a crime scene, a great deal of care has to be taken while dismantling the equipment to prevent any malicious programs from being activated should the computer power system be booby trapped.

The entire set up should be photographed or a video taken before starting dis-assembly, notes taken at every step, and every cord labeled stating where it was attached. There are several ways to set up a computer and peripherals, and when it arrives in the computer forensics lab the suspect one will need to be set up exactly as it was at the crime scene.

Seizing the Evidence with Computer Forensic

The Legal Aspects of Computer Forensic Evidence
 
Computer forensic experts today have to conform with many rules and regulations if the evidence they uncover is to be acceptable to the courts. The initial step to obtain computer forensic evidence is securing a search warrant to seize the suspect system. This warrant must include wording allowing the investigators to seize not only the computer, but also any peripherals thought to be connected with the crime. A suspected counterfeiter, for instance, may have used his computer, a scanner, and a printer to produce his counterfeit documents, in which case all three items would need to be seized to provide evidence.

If it is thought that evidence is contained in emails, this also should specifically mentioned in the search warrant. Email is a sensitive area as it can be considered personal, so solid justification is needed before a suspects email is allowed to be searched.

A warrant also needs to be clear about the searching of network and file servers, whether backup media is included, and if hardware, software, and peripherals can be removed to another location to conduct the search.

In all circumstances, data not connected to the crime must not be touched. Doctors, lawyers, and clergy store documents on their PCs and much of this information is confidential. While the computer forensic expert needs to uncover evidence, care must be exercised to protect the personal information of any innocent third parties.

Seizing Equipment for Computer Forensics

Investigators can only seize equipment connected with the case; knowing the role of the computer will indicate what should be taken. For instance, if it is thought that the computer was used to store evidence then all storage media should also be seized for the computer forensic inspection.

If the computer was running programs to collect and analyze information, any relevant books found at the scene should be seized to help computer forensic experts understand the programs.

If the suspect is present he must be prevented from touching the computer. A computer that is running at the time of seizure should not be allowed to shut down, pulling the plug out of the wall will prevent any programs from wiping incriminating information during the shutdown sequence. The computer forensic expert can test the shutdown sequence later, to see if it includes any destructive programs.

Dismantling Equipment for Computer Forensics

When a computer and its peripherals are removed from a crime scene, a great deal of care has to be taken while dismantling the equipment to prevent any malicious programs from being activated should the computer power system be booby trapped.

The entire set up should be photographed or a video taken before starting dis-assembly, notes taken at every step, and every cord labeled stating where it was attached. There are several ways to set up a computer and peripherals, and when it arrives in the computer forensics lab the suspect one will need to be set up exactly as it was at the crime scene.

Backup Power and the Freelance Writer: A Match to Watch

What is Backup Power?


Backup power is a power supply which will keep your computer operating in the event of a power outage. Most backup power supplies serve as advanced surge protectors which will keep your computer running for a few minutes, even an hour or more in the event of a power outage. They operate on a chargeable battery that will make sure that the power to your computer is uninterrupted, allowing you time to save any files on your computer which are currently in use and properly shut down the computer to protect it from crashing due to loss of power.


Why Does a Freelance Writer Need Backup Power?

Imagine that you are working on your current project, are almost done and then the power shuts off your computer. While you have been saving your work as you go along, there is an entire page of material you have written that is gone, and cannot be recovered when the power returns. You must now go back and rewrite that which you have already written, costing you time and anguish.


It is even possible that the entire system will fail due to a power outage and you will find that all of the documents on your computer are damaged, and can no longer be accessed. This is a great worry for any writer, and is one that you should not have hanging on your shoulders.


A backup power supply will insure that your computer never faces an immediate loss of power. No matter the weather, or problems with the power connection, your computer's power supply will continue uninterrupted. This will allow you time to save your work properly, then allow the computer to shut down as it should, ensuring that no harm comes to any of your work or your computer which is so important to your writing business.


How do I Get Backup Power?


There are many different backup power supplies available on the market. One of the best known companies is American Power Conversion (APC). You can find their web site at www.apcc.com. This company offers a wide range of backup power supply options for home computers.


When you are choosing a backup power supply for your computer, you will need to know how much power your computer uses, and how long you want your computer to run before losing power from the backup supply. Depending on the type of computer you own, the number of hard disks, any accessory drives installed on the computer, the processor and the monitor will determine how much power your computer uses in a given period of time. Because backup power supplies are limited, you will require a larger supply to run a computer that uses more power.


APC's web site offers a very easy to use tool that allows you to enter in the information about your computer, as well as how long you would like to ensure that your computer keeps running during a power outage, and then will show you the products they have available which fit within your range. Backup power supplies cost generally in the range of 50 to 100 dollars for home computers, although they can cost more if you wish to have a large power supply to keep your computer running for a long time.


Backup power is a very important thing for any freelance writer, and you should ensure that your home computer is protected from sudden loss of powers.

Backup Power and the Freelance Writer: A Match to Watch

What is Backup Power?

 

Backup power is a power supply which will keep your computer operating in the event of a power outage. Most backup power supplies serve as advanced surge protectors which will keep your computer running for a few minutes, even an hour or more in the event of a power outage. They operate on a chargeable battery that will make sure that the power to your computer is uninterrupted, allowing you time to save any files on your computer which are currently in use and properly shut down the computer to protect it from crashing due to loss of power.

 

Why Does a Freelance Writer Need Backup Power?

Imagine that you are working on your current project, are almost done and then the power shuts off your computer. While you have been saving your work as you go along, there is an entire page of material you have written that is gone, and cannot be recovered when the power returns. You must now go back and rewrite that which you have already written, costing you time and anguish.

 

It is even possible that the entire system will fail due to a power outage and you will find that all of the documents on your computer are damaged, and can no longer be accessed. This is a great worry for any writer, and is one that you should not have hanging on your shoulders.

 

A backup power supply will insure that your computer never faces an immediate loss of power. No matter the weather, or problems with the power connection, your computer's power supply will continue uninterrupted. This will allow you time to save your work properly, then allow the computer to shut down as it should, ensuring that no harm comes to any of your work or your computer which is so important to your writing business.

 

How do I Get Backup Power?

 

There are many different backup power supplies available on the market. One of the best known companies is American Power Conversion (APC). You can find their web site at www.apcc.com. This company offers a wide range of backup power supply options for home computers.

 

When you are choosing a backup power supply for your computer, you will need to know how much power your computer uses, and how long you want your computer to run before losing power from the backup supply. Depending on the type of computer you own, the number of hard disks, any accessory drives installed on the computer, the processor and the monitor will determine how much power your computer uses in a given period of time. Because backup power supplies are limited, you will require a larger supply to run a computer that uses more power.

 

APC's web site offers a very easy to use tool that allows you to enter in the information about your computer, as well as how long you would like to ensure that your computer keeps running during a power outage, and then will show you the products they have available which fit within your range. Backup power supplies cost generally in the range of 50 to 100 dollars for home computers, although they can cost more if you wish to have a large power supply to keep your computer running for a long time.

 

Backup power is a very important thing for any freelance writer, and you should ensure that your home computer is protected from sudden loss of powers.

Backup Software Functions to Look Out For

It's probably true to say that most backup software applications available will do a reasonable job of making a backup. That does not mean that all backup software is created equal, and choosing the one that suits your requirements is worth spending a bit of time and effort on. Try to look deeper than the bells and whistles of the interface to see if the software offers flexible operation with all the functions you need.

Backup Software Also Restores!


All too often, shoppers evaluating backup software give lots of attention to the backup process, and very little to how fast and how easy it is to restore the system after it has gone down. This is understandable considering that backups may be a nightly operation, but it is when you need to restore a downed system that your backup software really justifies its cost. You want this process to be as fast and as painless as possible.


File-by-File Backup Software, Imaging, or Both?


To be competitive in today's market, backup software must offer both the more traditional file-by-file backup and "imaging" technology. An organization gets the best of both worlds by having both approaches available


In a file-by-file backup, the software goes through the operating system with guaranteed file integrity, while in an image backup, it bypasses the operating system and does a bit level backup of a hard drive. This is perfect for quickly restoring a failed hard drive, but file-by-file is better for backing up key files, especially complex ones such as a relational database.


Backup Software Compression


Not all backup software offers you file compression, but yours should as uncompressed backup files take up a lot more storage space, and this becomes increasingly significant as your collection of backup files grows.


Flexibility of Backup Software


Your backup software should offer you the options of manual backups or automatic scheduling, and both full and incremental backups. Another useful feature that is becoming more common is the ability to run backups in the background without interfering with other applications. This allows you to run backups whenever you want without waiting for downtime.


Backup Media Compatibility


Where do you intend to store your backup files? Make sure that your backup software allows easy transfer to a variety of media: CDs, external hard drive, tape drives etc. so that you have the flexibility to change your media in the future.


User Friendly Backup Software


Having Backup software that is so difficult and unfriendly that people won't use it is almost as bad as no backup software at all. Choose backup software that has a simple, friendly, intuitive interface and provides logs that don't need a manual and an IT degree to decipher.


Weigh the backup software's functions against your backup needs. Do you want to backup only critical files, or are you backing up your whole operating system too? Are you backing up one or two stand alone desktop PCs or a network of them? Do you want to take images of the hard drive?

Backup Software Functions to Look Out For

It's probably true to say that most backup software applications available will do a reasonable job of making a backup. That does not mean that all backup software is created equal, and choosing the one that suits your requirements is worth spending a bit of time and effort on. Try to look deeper than the bells and whistles of the interface to see if the software offers flexible operation with all the functions you need.

Backup Software Also Restores!

All too often, shoppers evaluating backup software give lots of attention to the backup process, and very little to how fast and how easy it is to restore the system after it has gone down. This is understandable considering that backups may be a nightly operation, but it is when you need to restore a downed system that your backup software really justifies its cost. You want this process to be as fast and as painless as possible.

File-by-File Backup Software, Imaging, or Both?

To be competitive in today's market, backup software must offer both the more traditional file-by-file backup and "imaging" technology. An organization gets the best of both worlds by having both approaches available

In a file-by-file backup, the software goes through the operating system with guaranteed file integrity, while in an image backup, it bypasses the operating system and does a bit level backup of a hard drive. This is perfect for quickly restoring a failed hard drive, but file-by-file is better for backing up key files, especially complex ones such as a relational database.

Backup Software Compression

Not all backup software offers you file compression, but yours should as uncompressed backup files take up a lot more storage space, and this becomes increasingly significant as your collection of backup files grows.

Flexibility of Backup Software

Your backup software should offer you the options of manual backups or automatic scheduling, and both full and incremental backups. Another useful feature that is becoming more common is the ability to run backups in the background without interfering with other applications. This allows you to run backups whenever you want without waiting for downtime.

Backup Media Compatibility

Where do you intend to store your backup files? Make sure that your backup software allows easy transfer to a variety of media: CDs, external hard drive, tape drives etc. so that you have the flexibility to change your media in the future.

User Friendly Backup Software

Having Backup software that is so difficult and unfriendly that people won't use it is almost as bad as no backup software at all. Choose backup software that has a simple, friendly, intuitive interface and provides logs that don't need a manual and an IT degree to decipher.

Weigh the backup software's functions against your backup needs. Do you want to backup only critical files, or are you backing up your whole operating system too? Are you backing up one or two stand alone desktop PCs or a network of them? Do you want to take images of the hard drive?

Old School is Still Cool – The Amazing CD Backup Plan

Keeping a Backup and Why it is Important

 

If you're still wondering why the heck would you need to backup your files, then imagine yourself seeing all your files mangled by viruses and you can't do anything about it. Or a problem could only be solved by using a system recovery CD, wiping out all your data in the process? Or you run FDISK and accidentally remove a partition on the wrong drive? Or your hard drive dies, taking your data with it? Mistakes will always happen and all disc drives eventually expire. Without a backup it is a disaster, with a backup it is reduced to a very large nuisance.

What are the Files That You Need to Backup

 

A private user only needs to back up files that they have created or modified themselves. Computers use both program and data files; programs can be reloaded from the original discs, but your data can only be reloaded from backup copies.

 

Making a backup is simpler if you store all your files in one place. Letting each program use its own default storage file results in you data being scattered all over your hard drive. If you are using Windows 98 or Me put everything into My Documents, in Windows 2000 and XP use Documents and Settings.

 

What are the Requirements to Make a Backup?

 

There a choice of methods you can employ to make backup copies of your files. You can simply drag and drop the files you've created to a CD, copy them using the XCOPY command, use a third party CD mastering program to copy your files, or you can use Windows or a third party backup programs to create a backup to CD.

 

If you have software such as DirectCD drag-and-drop is extremely easy and you can use a CD-RW, but it is labor intensive if you have a lot of files, hard to keep organized, and you will need compatable software to read the disc.

 

Using the XCOPY command allows you to copy files from a specified folder made after a specified date, eg 'XCOPY "\Documents and Settings"*.* /s/d:03-15-02 K:\' copies everything from Documents and Settings created after 03-15-04 to the specified drive.

 

A CD mastering program, such as Nero, allows you backup your files to a CD-R. While this takes more steps than drag-and-drop, the resulting disc can be read by almost any CD-ROM, CD-R, or CD-RW drive without installing a compatible UDF reader program first. The disadvantage with these methods is that they are unable to create a backup larger than the media it is stored on. If this is a problem, you will need a true backup program capable of 'media spanning'.

 

Backup programs is different from ordinary file saving by compressing files, storing many files in a single file proprietary to the backup program, and using the 'Archive' file attribute should you ask for a backup of changed or new files only. They often allow Backups to be stored as files for transfer to CD later, and a disk image to be available for data recovery.

Old School is Still Cool – The Amazing CD Backup Plan

Keeping a Backup and Why it is Important


If you're still wondering why the heck would you need to backup your files, then imagine yourself seeing all your files mangled by viruses and you can't do anything about it. Or a problem could only be solved by using a system recovery CD, wiping out all your data in the process? Or you run FDISK and accidentally remove a partition on the wrong drive? Or your hard drive dies, taking your data with it? Mistakes will always happen and all disc drives eventually expire. Without a backup it is a disaster, with a backup it is reduced to a very large nuisance.]

What are the Files That You Need to Backup


A private user only needs to back up files that they have created or modified themselves. Computers use both program and data files; programs can be reloaded from the original discs, but your data can only be reloaded from backup copies.


Making a backup is simpler if you store all your files in one place. Letting each program use its own default storage file results in you data being scattered all over your hard drive. If you are using Windows 98 or Me put everything into My Documents, in Windows 2000 and XP use Documents and Settings.


What are the Requirements to Make a Backup?


There a choice of methods you can employ to make backup copies of your files. You can simply drag and drop the files you've created to a CD, copy them using the XCOPY command, use a third party CD mastering program to copy your files, or you can use Windows or a third party backup programs to create a backup to CD.


If you have software such as DirectCD drag-and-drop is extremely easy and you can use a CD-RW, but it is labor intensive if you have a lot of files, hard to keep organized, and you will need compatable software to read the disc.


Using the XCOPY command allows you to copy files from a specified folder made after a specified date, eg 'XCOPY "\Documents and Settings"*.* /s/d:03-15-02 K:\' copies everything from Documents and Settings created after 03-15-04 to the specified drive.


A CD mastering program, such as Nero, allows you backup your files to a CD-R. While this takes more steps than drag-and-drop, the resulting disc can be read by almost any CD-ROM, CD-R, or CD-RW drive without installing a compatible UDF reader program first. The disadvantage with these methods is that they are unable to create a backup larger than the media it is stored on. If this is a problem, you will need a true backup program capable of 'media spanning'.


Backup programs is different from ordinary file saving by compressing files, storing many files in a single file proprietary to the backup program, and using the 'Archive' file attribute should you ask for a backup of changed or new files only. They often allow Backups to be stored as files for transfer to CD later, and a disk image to be available for data recovery.

Deciding Among Backup Media Platforms

Considerations in Choosing Backup Media

 

Matching the capacity of the backup medium to the amount of data you intend to backup is very important, especially as hard disks capacities grow. The more disk or tape swaps required to perform a backup, the less likely it is that you will do it routinely. ideally, the whole backup will fit on one tape or disk so that you can leave it to run and do something else. You don't need to back up the whole hard disk every time, so a backup media that can hold most of it will usually suffice.

Optical Backup Media

 

CD-R have a capacity of about 650 MB, and despite not being reusable some people use them for backup. One big advantage is that the backups are readable by any CD-ROM drive, but even though the cost of an individual disc is low it can still become a very expensive way to do backups if you need several discs per time.

 

CD-RW are a good flexible, reusable, general-purpose medium that is certainly usable for backup. It has disadvantages; the capacity is only average at 650 MB, and the CD-RW disks are essentially proprietary in that only compatible reader software can read them.

 

Tape As Backup Media

 

Backups are large, sequential writes ideally suited tape drives, and tape is making a comeback as a backup device. As hard drives keep growing tape is the only medium of a similar capacity that is growing to match them. For the drives, and per-gigabyte basis for the media, it is inexpensive. It is reasonably reliable, simple to set up, and has a lot of support for drives and software. Performance can be less than ideal, especially when random access is needed to specific files on the tape. Usually this only needs to be done when restoring data.

 

Using Removable Drives for Backup

 

Removable Hard Disk Equivalent Drives such as Iomega's Rev drive or various portable hard drives, have a large enough capacity to be suitable for backups. These drives have a reasonable performance (about twice the speed of a CD/DVD drive) and good reliability. The disadvantages are that they are proprietary and expensive.

 

An interesting backup method not often used is removable hard drives. The price per gigabyte of hard disks is compares favorably to drives such as the Iomega Rev and they give a very high performance, random-access capability, standard interfaces and exchangeability, and excellent reliability. The disadvantage is that additional media means buying an additional drive, and often removable drives can only be removed with the power off.

 

Network Backup

 

For networked PCs, copying data over the network from one PC to another is a viable alternative to using removable drives. By duplicating each PC's information it is possible to protect each individual PC without the expense of tape drives or removable storage. Disadvantage are that viruses can travel over a network, and if all the PCs are in one building there is no off-site storage. A better solution is to use a centralized removable storage backup device to automatically back up all the PCs connected to the network.

Deciding Among Backup Media Platforms

Considerations in Choosing Backup Media


Matching the capacity of the backup medium to the amount of data you intend to backup is very important, especially as hard disks capacities grow. The more disk or tape swaps required to perform a backup, the less likely it is that you will do it routinely. ideally, the whole backup will fit on one tape or disk so that you can leave it to run and do something else. You don't need to back up the whole hard disk every time, so a backup media that can hold most of it will usually suffice.

Optical Backup Media


CD-R have a capacity of about 650 MB, and despite not being reusable some people use them for backup. One big advantage is that the backups are readable by any CD-ROM drive, but even though the cost of an individual disc is low it can still become a very expensive way to do backups if you need several discs per time.


CD-RW are a good flexible, reusable, general-purpose medium that is certainly usable for backup. It has disadvantages; the capacity is only average at 650 MB, and the CD-RW disks are essentially proprietary in that only compatible reader software can read them.


Tape As Backup Media


Backups are large, sequential writes ideally suited tape drives, and tape is making a comeback as a backup device. As hard drives keep growing tape is the only medium of a similar capacity that is growing to match them. For the drives, and per-gigabyte basis for the media, it is inexpensive. It is reasonably reliable, simple to set up, and has a lot of support for drives and software. Performance can be less than ideal, especially when random access is needed to specific files on the tape. Usually this only needs to be done when restoring data.


Using Removable Drives for Backup


Removable Hard Disk Equivalent Drives such as Iomega's Rev drive or various portable hard drives, have a large enough capacity to be suitable for backups. These drives have a reasonable performance (about twice the speed of a CD/DVD drive) and good reliability. The disadvantages are that they are proprietary and expensive.


An interesting backup method not often used is removable hard drives. The price per gigabyte of hard disks is compares favorably to drives such as the Iomega Rev and they give a very high performance, random-access capability, standard interfaces and exchangeability, and excellent reliability. The disadvantage is that additional media means buying an additional drive, and often removable drives can only be removed with the power off.


Network Backup


For networked PCs, copying data over the network from one PC to another is a viable alternative to using removable drives. By duplicating each PC's information it is possible to protect each individual PC without the expense of tape drives or removable storage. Disadvantage are that viruses can travel over a network, and if all the PCs are in one building there is no off-site storage. A better solution is to use a centralized removable storage backup device to automatically back up all the PCs connected to the network.

Commercial Software That Allows Easy DVD Backup

Everyone has been thinking about their DVDs and wishing there was a simple way to backup them. As everybody knows, DVDs don't come cheap. Another piece of common knowledge that you can throw in to that mix is that DVDs aren't durable. You may have just spent a hundred dollars on the complete first season of your favorite TV show only to find the discs unreadable because your kids gained control of the discs.

If you have young children in your household, you really have to start considering what options exist in allowing you to make backups of your DVDs.

A DVD's worst nightmare is the dirty hands of a seven year old child. The child will get dirt all over the disc, scratches on the disc from rough handling, and if the disc is still readable after that, then you'll probably soon see the DVD flying through the air as if it was a Frisbee.

Because of this great limitation to the wonderful DVD format, it makes perfect sense for any family with small children to consider making backup copies of your purchased DVDs.

Thankfully several software companies have seen the need for software that allows users to easily make backup copies of their DVDs, and now such software is readily available both on the internet and at your local software store.

1CLICK DVD Copy is one of the greatest pieces of DVD backup software there is available. With one click, the software will quickly make a backup copy of any DVD movie. The publisher of this software states that you can easily have a backup copy burned within fifteen minutes!

DVD Wizard Pro is another excellent piece of DVD backup software. While it does not offer all of the advanced capabilities of 1CLICK DVD, it is cheaper and offers other abilities to the user such as the ability to easily create backup copies of your Playstation 2 and XBOX video games.

Cosmi DVD Ripper is a value priced piece of computer software that allows users to easily create backup copies of their DVDs. Priced at under ten dollars, Cosmi is not without its own set of problems. If your DVD movie is longer than a hundred minutes, then you'll have to find another piece of software; Cosmi for some reason is only capable of copying the first hundred minutes.

After recommending a couple software titles, this list would not be complete if it did not list any worthless pieces of DVD backup software.

Roxio Easy DVD Copy is one product that's hard to recommend. While the product's box promptly displays 'Copy Hollywood DVDS' this is simply not the case. Roxio Easy DVD Copy will only copy unprotected media, which is very unfortunate considering the fact that ninety nine percent of commercial DVDs are encoded with copy protection. Roxio believes that after creating trust with millions of computer users, they can pull a fast one. Roxio Easy DVD Copy is simply a horrible product, and especially with its retail price of fifty dollars.

Commercial software is not your only option for making backup copies of your DVDs; several free pieces of software are out there waiting to be utilized.

Besides commercial software, a lot of free applications exist on the internet that allow you to backup your DVDs. Unfortunately, these pieces of software are not exactly the easiest things to use, but if you wish to save some money and just spend your time learning how to use the free software, in the end it's your best choice.

Commercial Software That Allows Easy DVD Backup

Everyone has been thinking about their DVDs and wishing there was a simple way to backup them. As everybody knows, DVDs don't come cheap. Another piece of common knowledge that you can throw in to that mix is that DVDs aren't durable. You may have just spent a hundred dollars on the complete first season of your favorite TV show only to find the discs unreadable because your kids gained control of the discs.


If you have young children in your household, you really have to start considering what options exist in allowing you to make backups of your DVDs.

A DVD's worst nightmare is the dirty hands of a seven year old child. The child will get dirt all over the disc, scratches on the disc from rough handling, and if the disc is still readable after that, then you'll probably soon see the DVD flying through the air as if it was a Frisbee.


Because of this great limitation to the wonderful DVD format, it makes perfect sense for any family with small children to consider making backup copies of your purchased DVDs.


Thankfully several software companies have seen the need for software that allows users to easily make backup copies of their DVDs, and now such software is readily available both on the internet and at your local software store.


1CLICK DVD Copy is one of the greatest pieces of DVD backup software there is available. With one click, the software will quickly make a backup copy of any DVD movie. The publisher of this software states that you can easily have a backup copy burned within fifteen minutes!


DVD Wizard Pro is another excellent piece of DVD backup software. While it does not offer all of the advanced capabilities of 1CLICK DVD, it is cheaper and offers other abilities to the user such as the ability to easily create backup copies of your Playstation 2 and XBOX video games.


Cosmi DVD Ripper is a value priced piece of computer software that allows users to easily create backup copies of their DVDs. Priced at under ten dollars, Cosmi is not without its own set of problems. If your DVD movie is longer than a hundred minutes, then you'll have to find another piece of software; Cosmi for some reason is only capable of copying the first hundred minutes.


After recommending a couple software titles, this list would not be complete if it did not list any worthless pieces of DVD backup software.


Roxio Easy DVD Copy is one product that's hard to recommend. While the product's box promptly displays 'Copy Hollywood DVDS' this is simply not the case. Roxio Easy DVD Copy will only copy unprotected media, which is very unfortunate considering the fact that ninety nine percent of commercial DVDs are encoded with copy protection. Roxio believes that after creating trust with millions of computer users, they can pull a fast one. Roxio Easy DVD Copy is simply a horrible product, and especially with its retail price of fifty dollars.


Commercial software is not your only option for making backup copies of your DVDs; several free pieces of software are out there waiting to be utilized.


Besides commercial software, a lot of free applications exist on the internet that allow you to backup your DVDs. Unfortunately, these pieces of software are not exactly the easiest things to use, but if you wish to save some money and just spend your time learning how to use the free software, in the end it's your best choice.

The Average Net Surfer's Definition of Data Recovery

Have you been wondering what data recovery is?

Curious about data recovery lately? In order to answer this question, it is necessary to understand the basis why there is a need for data recovery. Did you ever experience losing data on your PC? With data, of course, it refers to all your important files you have been saving over the years (e.g. photos, word documents, MP3 collection). And by 'lost,' it means the data was deleted from your hard disk, or lost due to a hard drive malfunction or failure. In other words, it's those files you wished you could have saved but didn't, and is ultimately gone.

You'll find many PC users believed once their data is lost, it is lost forever, never to be seen or retrieved again. These users often reload their system software and just forget about data recovery (or the possibility of it), because most have failed to even acknowledge the existence of a possible file recovery method or process. However, businesses or corporations, as well as many smart technical individuals, have discovered there are many ways of recovering lost data by the processes simply known as data recovery.

Data recovery is not Difficult

There are services offered by a wide variety of specialized individuals, as well as in the form of various software applications. While this may sound confusing, it is very easy to say if you're in need of software to assist you with data recovery, or if you require a specialized individual in order to help you with your file recovery efforts. With either cases, there is a possibility to retrieve your 'lost' data, and perhaps spare you from the assorted problems that's sure to arise if you had indeed lost your data, and failed to make any attempt to any recovery plans.

When's the right time for a data recovery software use?

To put it bluntly, file recovery software will be put into action whenever files are deleted from your PC's hard drive, either by your fault (the user) or by an automated action initiated by the computer's software. Your files may have been deleted from within your PC system, but using the correct software, there is a possibility retrieving all the deleted files. And what's more, in the past few years, many advancements have been made in the development of this software, so everyday, the technology gets sophisticated. Geared specially to home users and small businesses, everyone could take advantage at data recovery software's technological achievement. 

When do you need to call upon a data recovery specialist?

Whenever your data has been corrupted because of the failure of your hard drive to operate, data recovery specialists will be required. It is possible for data recovery specialists to extract data and other information from a hard drive even in a non-working condition. The practice is usually targeted towards large businesses or individuals who have a high demand for their lost data to be recovered.

Allowing you to have faith in your computer, data recovery solutions are today's technological must-have.

With both data recovery specialists and specialized software now available to help retrieve your lost data, on the next time you delete or lose important data, there is now an option available for you to help you get your data back. Instead of just forgetting about it and moving on, from now on, you have options to retrieve your data. Thank you data recovery! 

The Average Net Surfer's Definition of Data Recovery

Have you been wondering what data recovery is?


Curious about data recovery lately? In order to answer this question, it is necessary to understand the basis why there is a need for data recovery. Did you ever experience losing data on your PC? With data, of course, it refers to all your important files you have been saving over the years (e.g. photos, word documents, MP3 collection). And by 'lost,' it means the data was deleted from your hard disk, or lost due to a hard drive malfunction or failure. In other words, it's those files you wished you could have saved but didn't, and is ultimately gone.

You'll find many PC users believed once their data is lost, it is lost forever, never to be seen or retrieved again. These users often reload their system software and just forget about data recovery (or the possibility of it), because most have failed to even acknowledge the existence of a possible file recovery method or process. However, businesses or corporations, as well as many smart technical individuals, have discovered there are many ways of recovering lost data by the processes simply known as data recovery.


Data recovery is not Difficult


There are services offered by a wide variety of specialized individuals, as well as in the form of various software applications. While this may sound confusing, it is very easy to say if you're in need of software to assist you with data recovery, or if you require a specialized individual in order to help you with your file recovery efforts. With either cases, there is a possibility to retrieve your 'lost' data, and perhaps spare you from the assorted problems that's sure to arise if you had indeed lost your data, and failed to make any attempt to any recovery plans.


When's the right time for a data recovery software use?


To put it bluntly, file recovery software will be put into action whenever files are deleted from your PC's hard drive, either by your fault (the user) or by an automated action initiated by the computer's software. Your files may have been deleted from within your PC system, but using the correct software, there is a possibility retrieving all the deleted files. And what's more, in the past few years, many advancements have been made in the development of this software, so everyday, the technology gets sophisticated. Geared specially to home users and small businesses, everyone could take advantage at data recovery software's technological achievement. 


When do you need to call upon a data recovery specialist?


Whenever your data has been corrupted because of the failure of your hard drive to operate, data recovery specialists will be required. It is possible for data recovery specialists to extract data and other information from a hard drive even in a non-working condition. The practice is usually targeted towards large businesses or individuals who have a high demand for their lost data to be recovered.


Allowing you to have faith in your computer, data recovery solutions are today's technological must-have.


With both data recovery specialists and specialized software now available to help retrieve your lost data, on the next time you delete or lose important data, there is now an option available for you to help you get your data back. Instead of just forgetting about it and moving on, from now on, you have options to retrieve your data. Thank you data recovery! 

Awesome Ways to Handily Backup your Files

Have you always wanted to carry with you a handy backup copy of websites, photos, and  music collection? Reality is, there are people who want to have the ability to backup or copy their files, so they'll be able to show latest photos to their friends wherever they maybe. May it be at an internet cafe or the local library, many people find themselves wishing if only they had their files with them, but they don't as it would mean carrying around a large CD-R, which isn't very handy. With everything nowadays being digitized or delivered digital. When was the last time you shot a picture using a film? For those people who still have a lot of old media collections are quickly transferring to digital with services like Scanning Pros, which is a slide scanning service.

Fortunately, the recent years have brought to an explosion of handy little ways in order to allow users to always carry a backup of their files. First, there's the little flash memory stick which are being produced by, literally, every computer company on earth. Most of these are smaller than a pack of a chewing gum, and it has the ability to store tons of data. Now that's  handy!

Starting at around fifteen dollars, you can go out and purchase a 128 megabyte memory key chain. Plug it into your computer's USB port and boom! You can easily access/transfer your files. Also, you'll find handy flash memory based key chains, which starts at around $15, and it's perfect storage mediums for backup files. Since the memory key chains use the USB port for its power, users need not worry on carrying a power pack or replacing the batteries. The small flash memory units are extremely handy, as you can literally take your backup files anywhere you go. 

On the other hand, let us face the reality 128 megabytes is simply not enough for all your backup needs. IT'S NOT GONNA HAPPEN. And then, technology has found a way to counter this snag: these key chains now allow users to access to gigabytes of space for their backup files. Yes, you've heard it right. In under the size of a pack of gum, flash memory key chains has the ability to store gigabytes of data. Not just megabytes, but gigabytes. Although usually, one gigabyte units start at fifty dollars, they are dead handy when compared with large CD-R discs (and you won't get laughed at).

Another handy media for transporting backups of your files is through business card sized CD-Rs. If you're against the whole flash media brigade for whatever 'personal' reason, and wish to stay with good old CD-Rs, then business card CD-Rs are just a fit for you. Business card CD-Rs are handy little CDs which are kept in a small protective case in the size of a business card. While they can easily be stored in a wallet, they have a limit of around 50Mb for your backup files.

On the other hand, people who're using the handy sized CD-R discs for their backup needs should also be very careful with using the media in their CD drives. There are lots of CD burners, as well as normal CD-ROM units, that does not support the disc. Remember to always check the manual of any purchased CD-ROM drive in order to see if it supports business card sized CDs, otherwise you may loose your disc in the unit.

While business card CD-Rs ultimately looks cool, they just aren't as handy as flash-based memory key chains. Even though more people deemed key chains as more expensive, users have accepted they are more durable, can have much more space for the backup needs, and are supported in a lot more computer systems than its card CD-R counterparts.

Awesome Ways to Handily Backup your Files

Have you always wanted to carry with you a handy backup copy of websites, photos, and  music collection? Reality is, there are people who want to have the ability to backup or copy their files, so they'll be able to show latest photos to their friends wherever they maybe. May it be at an internet cafe or the local library, many people find themselves wishing if only they had their files with them, but they don't as it would mean carrying around a large CD-R, which isn't very handy. With everything nowadays being digitized or delivered digital. When was the last time you shot a picture using a film? For those people who still have a lot of old media collections are quickly transferring to digital with services like Scanning Pros, which is a slide scanning service.

Fortunately, the recent years have brought to an explosion of handy little ways in order to allow users to always carry a backup of their files. First, there's the little flash memory stick which are being produced by, literally, every computer company on earth. Most of these are smaller than a pack of a chewing gum, and it has the ability to store tons of data. Now that's  handy!


Starting at around fifteen dollars, you can go out and purchase a 128 megabyte memory key chain. Plug it into your computer's USB port and boom! You can easily access/transfer your files. Also, you'll find handy flash memory based key chains, which starts at around $15, and it's perfect storage mediums for backup files. Since the memory key chains use the USB port for its power, users need not worry on carrying a power pack or replacing the batteries. The small flash memory units are extremely handy, as you can literally take your backup files anywhere you go. 


On the other hand, let us face the reality 128 megabytes is simply not enough for all your backup needs. IT'S NOT GONNA HAPPEN. And then, technology has found a way to counter this snag: these key chains now allow users to access to gigabytes of space for their backup files. Yes, you've heard it right. In under the size of a pack of gum, flash memory key chains has the ability to store gigabytes of data. Not just megabytes, but gigabytes. Although usually, one gigabyte units start at fifty dollars, they are dead handy when compared with large CD-R discs (and you won't get laughed at).


Another handy media for transporting backups of your files is through business card sized CD-Rs. If you're against the whole flash media brigade for whatever 'personal' reason, and wish to stay with good old CD-Rs, then business card CD-Rs are just a fit for you. Business card CD-Rs are handy little CDs which are kept in a small protective case in the size of a business card. While they can easily be stored in a wallet, they have a limit of around 50Mb for your backup files.


On the other hand, people who're using the handy sized CD-R discs for their backup needs should also be very careful with using the media in their CD drives. There are lots of CD burners, as well as normal CD-ROM units, that does not support the disc. Remember to always check the manual of any purchased CD-ROM drive in order to see if it supports business card sized CDs, otherwise you may loose your disc in the unit.


While business card CD-Rs ultimately looks cool, they just aren't as handy as flash-based memory key chains. Even though more people deemed key chains as more expensive, users have accepted they are more durable, can have much more space for the backup needs, and are supported in a lot more computer systems than its card CD-R counterparts.

Some Insights on CrashPlan Online Backup Software

 You never really know when your precious data may be lost, and this can be devastating, especially if these files consist of your different projects or your own personal memories. What you need is an effective system that can solve your problems. These involve file management and even data backup in case of any untoward accident you don't want to happen!

For anyone's cup of coffee, here's insight on why you should try out Crash Plan and the benefits that come along, especially with a neat 30-day free trial available. When it comes to data backup systems, then here's what I found out.

How to Get your Online CrashPlan Backup Rolling

To get your backup system in action, simply download the file and install things as you would do with any other software. The 30-day-free trial is available for you check out, especially if you want to learn about the program tweaks. But, before that, here's what I've learned from Crash Plan.

Crash Plan Overview and Offerings

Before I even downloaded the program, I just checked that the program updates itself whenever there is a new release. Now, that is appealing, especially since you won't have to go through all that trouble finding the website and downloading all over again.

Installing the program was relatively smooth to do, especially with the eye-friendly graphical interface. Everything was straight forward, and I was already itching to try out this back up program.

The interface was straightforward, so to speak. The menu buttons you see allow you to back up your files either on a local drive or online (supported by the paid plans). You can try the online feature with the 30-day free trial once you've downloaded the file.

Interface Impression

Once opening the program, I immediately know what to do because I can conveniently find the buttons placed in the side, as you can see from the screen-shots. This accessibility makes the program friendly to use and accessible for those new to the whole system.

Overall Usability - Basic but Effective

The panel is basic, with all the options available for you to check out. As you can see, I can easily back up my folder with the streamlined interface. Including that, I have other options to choose from that makes Crash Plan a powerful back up software for my files.

Cross Platform Flexible

The one thing I noticed about Crash Plan is its functionality. I tried downloading the program on my Mac and I witnessed the same quality it offered for my PC. This convenience really provides me with the satisfaction that Crash Plan is indeed multi-platform functional.

Three Plans You Can Try Out Yourself

After trying out the 30-day free trial, the other offers of Crash Plan are as follows:

Crash Plan - this service comes with no cost at all where all your files are stored on a separate local disk in your computer. The benefit of this form of Crash Plan is that the service is light enough to maintain your file management through data encryption that effectively stores your personal files. This is downloadable through the website and it has around 50 megabytes of free space!

Crash Plan Central - An upgraded form of Crash Plan, your files are stored online, on dedicated servers that ensure your data is kept safe and sound. At a low cost, you can maintain your files as you update them and back up your important data every now and then. A cool feature is the 30-day free trial where you can enjoy the many features existing within this data backup system. This service offers you the amenities of an online backup system with ads on the management interface.

Crash Plan Pro - A more sophisticated version of Crash Plan Central, this premium version offers you a wide array of services such as 448-bit encryption. Also, this service is ad-free and conveniently stores your files with the highest security measures taken.

Which Plan Works for You? CrashPlan vs Crashplan Pro

After checking out CrashPlan, it seems to have the potential of being a complete personal backup system or even a business-based one. The off-site security (for the paid plans) really helps a lot, especially if you need information kept safe.

For those of you that really wish to go serious with online storage, especially for business owners, you can buy the premium service, which features 448-bit encryption and dedicated servers. Your files won't be easy to crack, especially when these are confidential business information.

Whatever floats your boat, Crash Plan gives you exactly what its name says. Crashing can cause unwanted effects for your computer files, whether they are personal photos or critical projects. Your files may become corrupt or even deleted altogether. With Crash Plan, you have a friendly interface that is easy to navigate yet powerful enough to back your files up in a very streamlined fashion.

Some Insights on CrashPlan Online Backup Software

You never really know when your precious data may be lost, and this can be devastating, especially if these files consist of your different projects or your own personal memories. What you need is an effective system that can solve your problems. These involve file management and even data backup in case of any untoward accident you don't want to happen!


For anyone's cup of coffee, here's insight on why you should try out Crash Plan and the benefits that come along, especially with a neat 30-day free trial available. When it comes to data backup systems, then here's what I found out.


How to Get your Online CrashPlan Backup Rolling


To get your backup system in action, simply download the file and install things as you would do with any other software. The 30-day-free trial is available for you check out, especially if you want to learn about the program tweaks. But, before that, here's what I've learned from Crash Plan.


Crash Plan Overview and Offerings


Before I even downloaded the program, I just checked that the program updates itself whenever there is a new release. Now, that is appealing, especially since you won't have to go through all that trouble finding the website and downloading all over again.


Installing the program was relatively smooth to do, especially with the eye-friendly graphical interface. Everything was straight forward, and I was already itching to try out this back up program.


The interface was straightforward, so to speak. The menu buttons you see allow you to back up your files either on a local drive or online (supported by the paid plans). You can try the online feature with the 30-day free trial once you've downloaded the file.


Interface Impression


Once opening the program, I immediately know what to do because I can conveniently find the buttons placed in the side, as you can see from the screen-shots. This accessibility makes the program friendly to use and accessible for those new to the whole system.


Overall Usability - Basic but Effective


The panel is basic, with all the options available for you to check out. As you can see, I can easily back up my folder with the streamlined interface. Including that, I have other options to choose from that makes Crash Plan a powerful back up software for my files.


Cross Platform Flexible


The one thing I noticed about Crash Plan is its functionality. I tried downloading the program on my Mac and I witnessed the same quality it offered for my PC. This convenience really provides me with the satisfaction that Crash Plan is indeed multi-platform functional.


Three Plans You Can Try Out Yourself


After trying out the 30-day free trial, the other offers of Crash Plan are as follows:


Crash Plan - this service comes with no cost at all where all your files are stored on a separate local disk in your computer. The benefit of this form of Crash Plan is that the service is light enough to maintain your file management through data encryption that effectively stores your personal files. This is downloadable through the website and it has around 50 megabytes of free space!


Crash Plan Central - An upgraded form of Crash Plan, your files are stored online, on dedicated servers that ensure your data is kept safe and sound. At a low cost, you can maintain your files as you update them and back up your important data every now and then. A cool feature is the 30-day free trial where you can enjoy the many features existing within this data backup system. This service offers you the amenities of an online backup system with ads on the management interface.


Crash Plan Pro - A more sophisticated version of Crash Plan Central, this premium version offers you a wide array of services such as 448-bit encryption. Also, this service is ad-free and conveniently stores your files with the highest security measures taken.


Which Plan Works for You? CrashPlan vs Crashplan Pro


After checking out CrashPlan, it seems to have the potential of being a complete personal backup system or even a business-based one. The off-site security (for the paid plans) really helps a lot, especially if you need information kept safe.


For those of you that really wish to go serious with online storage, especially for business owners, you can buy the premium service, which features 448-bit encryption and dedicated servers. Your files won't be easy to crack, especially when these are confidential business information.


Whatever floats your boat, Crash Plan gives you exactly what its name says. Crashing can cause unwanted effects for your computer files, whether they are personal photos or critical projects. Your files may become corrupt or even deleted altogether. With Crash Plan, you have a friendly interface that is easy to navigate yet powerful enough to back your files up in a very streamlined fashion.

The Yin and Yang of Online Backup Systems

The Reason to Have an Online Backup System

Consider: If ever your office or house gets burned or the fireproof box which contains your backup disks get stolen, having installed an online backup system will save a great amount of whining and trouble for you. 

There are easy ways to backing up online. First, set up a leased line to a remote server, and from there, transfer the data to it at whatever interval you deem appropriate. This method will require extra hardware. Obviously, this is a non-starter for a company that works from only one site. Luckily, you will find various third parties offering an online backup service.

Your Online Backup Service Features

Basically, these backup services work in the same manner. You rent a server space and, subject to a few terms to keep obscenity out, upload anything you wish. Also, you can restore online, or by paying for a CD of everything you have stored on a third party's server. Compression, which are wizards helping you manage your backup files, and encryption, are all basic or standard services.

What's so great about the backup service features is the companies themselves won't be able to unencrypt all your data. This means your security is on the lock as these companies basically employ military-strength encryption; even if your files are intercepted in transit, the bad guys won't be able to decipher any of your data.

Most backup services are able to upload only elements of a file that have been changed instead of the entire file. This is particularly favorable and important to corporate environments in order to avoid bandwidth problems. Also, most services have virus checking attribute as a standard. It also have a drag and drop interfaces, which are becoming increasingly popular today. You will find many online backup companies allowing backups to be resumed should the connection is lost.

Your Online Backup Warning 

There will be some companies that will only allow one initial complete backup of a hard drive. However, the time taken for the first backup of an average PC can exceed 24 hours. On the other hand, the portability between systems can be an issue in some cases as some System Administrators may be concerned about bottle necking. 

When you've finally decided which backup service you'll choose, the next step is to think over of what files to be backed up. It is unlikely that application files will be retrievable from a backup. It's usually needed to be installed using the companies' own programs. Some applications use its own archiving feature with a restore command that will not import data from another file. 

Remember that any files that have been altered by an employee becomes unique to that individual's PC. With this, your data should be backed up. Files that can be restored through other means (from existing installation discs for instance), need not backing up.

As many online backup services duplicate the original file structure, it is worth checking what  original data files to be backed up and filed in a logical way. A confusing file structure or files with obscure names means it could get in the way of a clean data restore. This can cause complications when applications store information in files with unintelligible names or obscure locations by default; email programs are found guilty of this mishaps.

The Yin and Yang of Online Backup Systems

The Reason to Have an Online Backup System

Consider: If ever your office or house gets burned or the fireproof box which contains your backup disks get stolen, having installed an online backup system will save a great amount of whining and trouble for you. 


There are easy ways to backing up online. First, set up a leased line to a remote server, and from there, transfer the data to it at whatever interval you deem appropriate. This method will require extra hardware. Obviously, this is a non-starter for a company that works from only one site. Luckily, you will find various third parties offering an online backup service.


Your Online Backup Service Features


Basically, these backup services work in the same manner. You rent a server space and, subject to a few terms to keep obscenity out, upload anything you wish. Also, you can restore online, or by paying for a CD of everything you have stored on a third party's server. Compression, which are wizards helping you manage your backup files, and encryption, are all basic or standard services.


What's so great about the backup service features is the companies themselves won't be able to unencrypt all your data. This means your security is on the lock as these companies basically employ military-strength encryption; even if your files are intercepted in transit, the bad guys won't be able to decipher any of your data.


Most backup services are able to upload only elements of a file that have been changed instead of the entire file. This is particularly favorable and important to corporate environments in order to avoid bandwidth problems. Also, most services have virus checking attribute as a standard. It also have a drag and drop interfaces, which are becoming increasingly popular today. You will find many online backup companies allowing backups to be resumed should the connection is lost.


Your Online Backup Warning 


There will be some companies that will only allow one initial complete backup of a hard drive. However, the time taken for the first backup of an average PC can exceed 24 hours. On the other hand, the portability between systems can be an issue in some cases as some System Administrators may be concerned about bottle necking. 


When you've finally decided which backup service you'll choose, the next step is to think over of what files to be backed up. It is unlikely that application files will be retrievable from a backup. It's usually needed to be installed using the companies' own programs. Some applications use its own archiving feature with a restore command that will not import data from another file. 


Remember that any files that have been altered by an employee becomes unique to that individual's PC. With this, your data should be backed up. Files that can be restored through other means (from existing installation discs for instance), need not backing up.


As many online backup services duplicate the original file structure, it is worth checking what  original data files to be backed up and filed in a logical way. A confusing file structure or files with obscure names means it could get in the way of a clean data restore. This can cause complications when applications store information in files with unintelligible names or obscure locations by default; email programs are found guilty of this mishaps.


Sean Maverick writes for <a href="http://free-backup.info/">free-backup.info</a> - a free backup software information and resources, which include the award winning free backup programs Back2zip and JustZIPit.